Exploring the History of Halloween

Why does Halloween seem to be getting bigger every year?

• Because it is a new festival.

• Because it is getting darker earlier.

• Because Christmas is still a long way away.

• Because people need something to cheer them up before winter.

Which ancient cultures contributed to the origins of Halloween?

• Greek and Roman

• Celtic and Roman

• Egyptian and Celtic

• Greek and Egyptian

What was the original purpose of the Celtic festival Sahlan?

• To mark the beginning of winter

• To celebrate the beginning of summer

• To celebrate the harvest

• To honor the gods

What did poor people do during the tradition of soling?

• They went around houses asking for food in exchange for prayers.

• They dressed up as ghosts and witches.

• They carved pumpkins.

• They performed plays.

What is the modern Halloween game for children in America called?

• Soling

• Pumpkin carving

• Ghost hunting

• Trick-or-treat

Which famous play by Shakespeare features witches?

• Othello

• Hamlet

• Macbeth

• Romeo and Juliet

What was a witch traditionally believed to have?

• A magic wand

• A flying broomstick

• Special powers and dealings with the devil

• A black cat

What is a jack-o'-lantern?

• A type of Halloween costume

• A type of Halloween candy

• A carved pumpkin with a candle inside

• A traditional Halloween game

From which legend does the jack-o'-lantern originate?

• A Scottish legend

• A Roman legend

• An Irish legend

• A Greek legend

Which animals are commonly associated with Halloween?

• Dogs and cats

• Bats and spiders

• Birds and fish

• Horses and cows